Transportation

Those who fly into the Dominican Republic would be wise to arrive at an airport that is close to their first destination. With seven international and additional domestic airports, flying can also be a convenient and quick way of getting around the island, especially if you’re traveling quite a distance. Charter and domestic flights can start as low as $60(USD), although travelers should remember that the Dominican Republic is not in compliance with the International Aviation Safety Assessment Program of the Federal Aviation Administration of the United States. This assessment program judges a country’s ability to comply with international standards in air safety and maintenance.

Rental cars are another great option for those who want to traverse large distances of the country. Rental agencies are stationed in all major tourist destinations and offer large fleets of both sedan and four wheel drive vehicles. Although driving in any country in the Caribbean can be intimidating, rental cars remain a good option for those who are careful on the road.

Many rental companies also rent scooters and mopeds. Vacationers driving two-wheeled vehicles may experience fewer traffic and police headaches than those driving cars. However, mopeds can be dangerous due to the sometimes less than ideal road safety conditions. Vacationers should always wear helmets if choosing this method of transportation.

For those planning to do limited traveling in a smaller area, taxis and buses can be cheaper than a rental car and are often just as much of an adventure. When selecting taxis and buses, it is safer for vacationers to use the well known tourist companies to avoid becoming victims of theft or muggings. Smaller taxis will sometimes have fixed rates, and publicos resemble buses, allowing passengers to get off and on along the route as they please. The well known bus companies provide good service in and between cities for reasonable rates. Motochocos, or motorcycle taxis, are also available for small fees, although the safety of passengers may not always be certain.

Ferry and boat service is limited in the Dominican Republic, but travelers can make the journey to and from Puerto Rico on several different days during the week. A number of smaller ferries and boats offer service to destinations around the island.

Many visitors to he Dominican Republic are irresistibly drawn to explore different areas of the island. With so many transportation options by land, sea, and air, securing a suitable means of transport for your itinerary should not be a problem.

Rental cars are a great option for visitors looking for freedom and mobility while exploring the Dominican Republic. There are wide array of car rental companies to choose from in all of the major tourist locations throughout the island. These agencies rent out all kinds of vehicles, from regular sedans to four wheel drive vehicles. Rates can start as low as $35(USD) at local companies, but generally start around $70(USD) per day. The average daily rate will usually decrease as you increase the duration of the rental.

To secure a car rental in the Dominican Republic, drivers must have a valid passport and a valid driver’s license from their home country. Most companies have minimum age requirements of 25, although some require drivers to be 21 or 26 years of age. You will also need a major credit card for a security deposit, usually in the range of $150(USD) to $250(USD). Travelers should make sure that this deposit is refunded. Vehicle rental insurance on your credit card is useful, and companies sell collision damage insurance from $10(USD) to $16(USD) per day. Renters should always thoroughly review insurance policies and the vehicle’s condition before making a final agreement with the company. Rental companies often supply a full tank of gas, and renters should fill it up before returning the vehicle.

Driving is done on the right side of the road in the Dominican Republic. Speed limits in the country range from 30 mph to 50 mph, depending on whether you are in an urban or rural area. As in many Caribbean countries, driving can be dangerous in the Dominican Republic, and those renting a vehicle should remain alert and cautious while on the road. Roads in some areas have potholes or are poorly lit, and many locals have cars without adequate lighting and signaling devices. As a result, drivers should steer away from nighttime driving. Seat belts are required by law, as is the use of hands-free cell phone devices should you wish to talk while in the car. Child safety seats, however, are not required by law. Drivers should be watchful for overzealous pedestrians and wary of right-of-way traditions, as these are generally not obeyed. Traffic law enforcement ranges from strict to lax, and it has been said that some officers pull over drivers for ambiguous reasons to collect small fees.

Visit us in Punta Cana!

It is your next memorable destination!